- Date Of Birth: November 11, 1920
- Date Of Death: December 10, 2021
- State: Utah
Our handsome, determined, driven, cherished and sometimes lovingly stubborn father and grandfather passed away at the age of 101 at his home on December 10, 2021, surrounded by his loving family. Robert (Bob) Sherman Kelstrom was born on November 11, 1920 in Elwood Utah to Gunnar Kelstrom and Minnie Jensen. He spent his early years helping his father run the family farm which instilled in him a work ethic that he carried with him for the remainder of his life. Bob graduated from Bear River High School in 1939. After graduation, he joined the Army Air Corp, stationed at Elmendorf Air Base, Alaska as a flight engineer on C47 aircraft. Bob, along with his “Sledgehammer Mechanics” brothers serviced transport aircraft that was used extensively during World War II. After honorable discharge, Bob returned home where he met his eternal companion at a chance encounter at Sears while ordering car parts. Bob and Bonnie Jean Morse were married on May 24, 1947 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Logan LDS Temple. Bob and Bonnie spent 74 eventful years together and devoted their lives to raising their four children.
Bob was an extraordinary provider for his family, spending 70 years in automotive and recreational vehicle sales. He began his career in the Parts department at Frank Browning Chevrolet and eventually retired after three attempts at the age 96 from Ray Citte Inc, after spending nearly 50 years with the company. When Bob retired, he was one of the oldest salesmen in the state, with a sales license of 01238, as well as the oldest Fleetwood salesman in the nation. Bob considered Ray Citte employees part of his family and stayed in close contact with them after retirement. The special relationship Neil Citte and Bob shared was treasured. The family is deeply indebted to Neil for the kindness and generosity he showed Bob over the years.
Bob and Bonnie moved to Roy in 1954 and were active members of Lakeview LDS ward. Bob’s testimony strengthened him and his faith sustained him through the last seven months after the passing of his dear wife. Bob had a great love for the members of the ward and they held a special place in his heart.
Bob is survived by his three children, Sherman (Diane) Kelstrom, Syracuse, Tamara (Charles) Roberts, Syracuse and Curtis Kelstrom of Cody, Wyoming. He is also survived by eight grandchildren and many great and great-great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, siblings, son, Scott Kelstrom and wife, Bonnie.
The family expresses their appreciation for Dr. Zachary Campbell and his staff for their enduring compassion for Bob over the last 16 years. Additional support provided by Summit Hospice, along with diligent care by Sherman, Diane, Tamara and Charles allowed us to honor Bob’s request that he stay in his home until the end.
